| The goalie in ice hockey has the most dangerous job | | | | Again it should be tough enough; a good goal blocker |
| -to stop the puck (sometimes zooming in at 160 km/h) | | | | costs around $45. Ice hockey goalies have leg pads |
| from entering the goal-net. This task is fraught with | | | | that are heavily padded for complete calf and shin |
| injuries and so a goalie's equipment is crafted to | | | | protection. In addition they contain kneepads and ankle |
| provide more protection than that of the other players. | | | | pads. Most leg pads are closed at the feet to provide |
| The goalie chest protector is a safety vest made of | | | | protection for toes and soles. They are made of |
| molded plastic with specialized elbow pads, bicep and | | | | reinforced plastic with nylon linings for comfort. Pads |
| forearm protection. The chest protector is surprisingly | | | | should contour the feet for a good fit. Leg pads are |
| lightweight to allow the goalie's unrestricted movement. | | | | expensive, at around $300 to $350 a pair. Goalies are |
| Chest protectors may cost from $100 to $200, | | | | also provided with a throat protector to guard against |
| depending on quality. There are many helmet designs | | | | direct shots, as well as lacerations and abrasions from |
| for ice hockey goalies. It must be lightweight and | | | | his helmet. Throat protectors vary in cost, from $20 to |
| shock-resistant and have a foam cushion lining for | | | | $75, depending on the degree of protection they |
| comfort. Ideally helmets will feature built-in sweat | | | | provide. Skates used by ice hockey goalies differ from |
| absorption bands. The wire-net for the face must be | | | | those of other players. These skates are faster |
| made of specialized unbreakable chrome steel. | | | | moving and provide movement not only forward and |
| Helmets, which cost about $150 to $250 must be | | | | backward, but also sideways. Goalie skates may cost |
| thoroughly checked for comfort and safety before | | | | up to $350. Goalie sticks are similar to those of other |
| purchase. Ice hockey goalies use catch gloves to stop | | | | ice hockey players, with hardwood shafts covered in |
| the puck. The glove must be tough while providing | | | | fiberglass and broad blades and cost about $50 to |
| complete freedom for wrist movement and have | | | | $70. Goalie equipment is expensive. Buying it online will |
| wristbands for protection. A single glove would cost | | | | save a few dollars. But if a goalie wishes to buy online, |
| about $125. The goalie also uses a goal blocker for his | | | | the size should be carefully considered for maximum |
| other hand to block the puck from entering the net. | | | | efficiency and protection. |